Legislative Assembly Of Saskatchewan, Regina, SK

The fundamental democratic principle that gives life to our Legislative Assembly is "responsible government". This term means that government is answerable for its actions to a Legislative Assembly elected by the people. Parliament, of course, has a long history in which responsible government evolved. After it was decided that the government would require parliamentary approval for its actions, it became obvious that cabinet ought to have membership in parliament to better carry on the Sovereign's business. While cabinet's purpose was to find and maintain support, its closer relationship with parliament provided a direct opportunity for Members to question and publicize government policy and to maintain a constant scrutiny of government. The crucial feature of this interaction between government and parliament was that cabinet could be defeated by a majority decision of the Assembly. Today, when a cabinet loses the confidence of the Assembly, it is usual that the people be given an opportunity to elect a new Assembly and government. In Canada, unlike the United States, there is no fixed term of office: a government retains power only as long as it retains the confidence of the Assembly.